Europe is still in the midst of a prolonged recession. The full impact of the Euro crisis, changes in the Middle East and Obama’s re-election are still to be felt. One thing is certain: for the foreseeable future, change is a permanent feature of our communication landscape. Rapidly evolving technology, socio political changes and financial turmoil are increasing the need for executives to adapt and adapt fast.

IABC’s EuroComm 2013 explores this theme in two streams: Europe in an age of disruption - an exploration of today’s business communication environment; and Re-inventing communication - the strategies and tactics to thrive in our disruptive environment.

In a series of short, ‘TED’-style, 18 minute sessions, leading speakers from across industries will present the current state of play and share stories from different brands and organisations. The sessions will cut across disciplines; public relations, crisis communication, organisational change, sustainability and much more. Panel discussions are open for audience participation. Pre-conference workshops provide a deep dive into two key areas; creating engaging content and the power of storytelling. In addition, ten presentations slot are open to delegates for a Pecha Kucha session – 20 slides in five minutes!

In a content rich agenda the top line speakers include: Robert Madelin - director general of the European Commission’s directorate-general for Communications Networks, Content and Technology (DG CONNECT); Christian Engstrom - Swedish Pirate Party deputy chairman, MEP, activist and champion of both the freedom of information and human rights; Margaret O’Donnell - digital media manager at the British Red Cross.

A new panel of ‘Hyperthinkers’ - experts in adapting our way of thinking to the new business communications environment, will help focus minds and showcase capabilities we need to succeed. Hyperthinkers include: Aurelie Valtat - digital communication manager, council of the European Union; Helen Dunnett - head of content strategy at ZN media; Ian Andersen - External communications advisor to DG interpretation at the European Commission; Angus Thomson - director of vaccination policy and advocacy at Sanofi Pasteur.

IABC EuroComm 2013 takes place 10-12 April at the Conference @ Solvay Brussels School, 42 Avenue Franklin Roosevelt, Brussels. There is a pre-conference reception at the Grand Place, Hotel de Ville.

EuroComm is IABC’s biennial regional forum for business communication professionals - decision makers in leading companies and organizations across the region – to hear the latest developments and best practices in communication and make connections to advance their programs and careers.

by Rebecca Hill

Communications strategist based in the UAE and IABC Board member for Europe, Middle East and North Africa.